<p><strong>For analytical scientists working with chromatography and mass spectrometry, protecting sensitive information is crucial. Advances in instrument and software technology, combined with increased demands for in-depth analytics, has significantly increased the volume of valuable data that must be safeguarded from unauthorized access and potential breaches. One effective strategy to enhance security is to centralize data management, storing data away from the initial point of acquisition. Let us explore how this approach can significantly strengthen security for chromatography and mass spectrometry users and facilitate adherence to regulatory compliance measures surrounding electronic records.&nbsp;</strong></p><h4><strong>Understanding the analytical science landscape&nbsp;</strong></h4><p>Chromatography and mass spectrometry are critical techniques in many fields including pharmaceuticals, environmental analysis and biochemistry. The data generated from these methods includes intricate details about potentially proprietary chemical compositions and biological information. Protecting this data is crucial to maintaining the integrity of scientific research and the competitive edge of organizations.</p><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Thermo_Fisher_Scientific_Enhanced_Security_Through_Centralized_Data_Management_A_guide_for_Chromatography_and_Mass_Spectrometry_Users_95f6d464f1.webp" alt="Thermo Fisher Scientific: Enhanced Security Through Centralized Data Management - A guide for Chromatography and Mass Spectrometry Users" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Thermo_Fisher_Scientific_Enhanced_Security_Through_Centralized_Data_Management_A_guide_for_Chromatography_and_Mass_Spectrometry_Users_95f6d464f1.webp 245w," sizes="100vw" width="1200" height="600"></p><h4><strong>The data security challenge&nbsp;</strong></h4><p>Data acquisition, processing, storage and reporting has traditionally been conducted on isolated, static hardware-bound workstations. This approach presents significant security risks:</p><ul><li><strong>Single point of failure: </strong>An isolated system with poor backup strategies can be vulnerable to catastrophic data loss via accidental damage or environmental changes. Any compromise can lead to data corruption, loss or unauthorized alterations.&nbsp;</li><li><strong>Accessibility and convenience: </strong>Storing and processing data in a noisy lab environment can be inconvenient and impractical. Technical staff are often competing for access to instruments using the same workstation that others need for processing. This often leads to users manually transferring data outside of a controlled system for processing elsewhere. &nbsp;</li></ul><h4><strong>The case for centralized data management&nbsp;</strong></h4><p>Centralizing data management involves storing data in a central server location, away from the initial point of data acquisition. Here is how this approach can enhance security and usability for chromatography and mass spectrometry users:</p><ul><li><strong>Reduced risk:</strong> A centralized system that has redundancies and backups in place can alleviate the risks associated with a single point of failure. Attackers trying to gain access will also have to deal with robust security measures not typically seen with isolated workstations&nbsp;</li><li><strong>Enhanced data integrity: </strong>With separate systems for acquisition and storage, the integrity of the data is better preserved. Any unauthorized changes on the acquisition workstation will not directly affect the stored data.&nbsp;</li><li><strong>Remote access and flexibility</strong>: Centralized data storage allows users to securely and conveniently access data from anywhere without manual transfer or copying the data.&nbsp;</li></ul><h4><strong>Data retention, integrity and auditing&nbsp;</strong></h4><p>Compliance with regulatory bodies such as the FDA (Food and Drug Administration) and &nbsp;EMA (European Medicines Agency) involves meeting stringent requirements for data integrity, security and retention. Centralized data management can help meet these requirements.</p><ul><li><strong>Data integrity and audit trails:</strong> Separating acquisition from storage lets organizations ensure long-term raw data integrity and traceability by controlling access and providing audit trails.&nbsp;</li><li><strong>Secure data retention: </strong>Regulations often mandate that data submissions be stored securely for extended periods. Dedicated data storage solutions can be designed to meet these requirements of large data volumes in a cost-effective way, while also protecting data from unauthorized access, accidental damage and environmental threats. &nbsp;</li></ul><h4><strong>Practical implementation considerations for data security&nbsp;</strong></h4><p>Chromatography and mass spectrometry users looking to deploy a centralized data management system should consider some data security essentials:</p><ul><li><strong>Secure data transfer protocols:</strong> Use of encrypted channels for transferring data from the acquisition point to the central storage system.&nbsp;</li><li><strong>Robust authentication mechanisms:</strong> Multi-factor authentication (MFA) to control access to both acquisition and storage systems. Single sign-on (SSO) systems also offer convenience.&nbsp;</li><li><strong>Accessible audit trails and monitoring: </strong>Conducting regular security audits and continuous monitoring to detect and respond to potential threats promptly.&nbsp;</li><li><strong>Leverage cloud solutions:</strong> Consider using cloud-based solutions that offer built-in security features for both data acquisition and storage. Many cloud providers offer specialized services that can help segregate these functions securely.&nbsp;</li><li><strong>Compliance-focused data management: </strong>Ensure that the data management strategy aligns with regulatory requirements for data integrity, security and retention. This includes maintaining detailed records of data acquisition, storage, and processing activities.&nbsp;</li></ul><h4><strong>Conclusion&nbsp;</strong></h4><p>Centralizing data management by storing data away from the initial point of acquisition is a powerful strategy to enhance data security and facilitate regulatory compliance. Centralized data can be securely managed and shared remotely, allowing users to access data independently from the lab-bound workstations used for acquisition. Adopting secure data transfer protocols and robust authentication mechanisms can be made easier with modern cloud solutions. Scientists should feel empowered by these tools to protect their valuable data and maintain the integrity of their research. &nbsp;</p>

Enhanced Security Through Centralized Data Management: A guide for Chromatography and Mass Spectrometry Users

News from LabRulezLCMS Library - Week 15, 2025

News from LabRulezLCMS Library - Week 16, 2025

<p>In the world of chromatography data systems (CDS), the future waits for no one. Regulations tighten, technology evolves, and the demand for data integrity grows faster than a lab manager’s coffee consumption. So, the million-dollar question is: <i>Is your CDS future-ready?</i></p><p>For many labs, the debate boils down to two options: <strong>upgrade your existing system</strong> or <strong>make the leap to a new CDS vendor</strong>. Let’s dive into the pros, cons, and eyebrow-raising surprises each path might hold.</p><h3><strong>Option 1: Upgrading your existing CDS</strong></h3><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Thermo_Fisher_Scientific_Are_You_Future_Ready_Upgrading_Your_CDS_vs_Swapping_Vendors_2_6f879fffdd.jpg" alt="Thermo Fisher Scientific: Are You Future Ready? Upgrading Your CDS vs. Swapping Vendors" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Thermo_Fisher_Scientific_Are_You_Future_Ready_Upgrading_Your_CDS_vs_Swapping_Vendors_2_6f879fffdd.jpg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="3840" height="1236"></p><p>Ah, the classic safe “stick with what you know” approach. Upgrading your current system to its latest version can feel like slipping into a newer, comfier version of your favorite lab coat. But is it the right move?</p><h5><strong>Pros:</strong></h5><ul><li><strong>Familiarity breeds efficiency:</strong> Your team already knows the system. No steep learning curves or eye-twitch-inducing training sessions.</li><li><strong>Less downtime:</strong> Upgrades are often smoother than full system replacements, keeping your lab running (almost) seamlessly.</li><li><strong>Compliance confidence:</strong> Most vendors ensure their updates align with the latest regulations—goodbye, sleepless nights over audits.</li></ul><h5><strong>Cons:</strong></h5><ul><li><strong>Old dog, new tricks?</strong> Even with upgrades, legacy systems can struggle to keep pace with cutting-edge analytics and integrations.</li><li><strong>Hidden costs:</strong> Licenses, hardware tweaks, or specialized support for the upgrade might nibble away at your budget.</li><li><strong>Patchwork problems:</strong> If your system is a Frankenstein’s monster of add-ons and workarounds, upgrading might only prolong the inevitable switch.</li></ul><blockquote><p><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://assets.thermofisher.com/TFS-Assets/CMD/Reference-Materials/cs-003371-cds-chromeleon-updater-service-ifpen-cs003371-na-en.pdf">Learn how IFP Energies Nouvelles solved their challenges around CDS upgrades</a></p></blockquote><h3><strong>Option 2: Swapping to a new CDS vendor</strong></h3><p>The “grass is greener” approach might sound appealing—especially if your current system is held together with duct tape and hope. But starting fresh comes with its own set of trade-offs.</p><h5><strong>Pros:</strong></h5><ul><li><strong>Modern marvels:</strong> Newer systems boast advanced features like AI-driven analytics, better user interfaces, and faster processing.</li><li><strong>Future-proofing:</strong> Switching vendors can prepare your lab for the next decade (or two) of innovation.</li><li><strong>Reduced hardware (IT):</strong> Say goodbye to server management and hello to cloud-based or hybrid solutions.</li></ul><h5><strong>Cons:</strong></h5><ul><li><strong>The training gauntlet:</strong> Even the most intuitive systems require staff retraining, which can lead to productivity dips (and a few grumbles).</li><li><strong>Compatibility chaos:</strong> Migrating data from one system to another can be trickier than navigating a regulatory audit.</li><li><strong>Cost considerations:</strong> A new CDS is an investment—make sure your CFO is ready to back the budget.</li></ul><h3><strong>Key considerations for both paths</strong></h3><ol><li><strong>Compliance is king:</strong> Whether you upgrade or switch, ensure your CDS meets the latest regulatory standards (think ALCOA+ principles).</li><li><strong>Hardware matters:</strong> If your current system needs hardware upgrades just to keep up, a vendor switch might give you more bang for your buck.</li><li><strong>People power:</strong> Even the best technology won’t help if your team isn’t on board. Training, support, and usability should weigh heavily in your decision.</li></ol><h3><strong>The bottom line: To upgrade or to switch?</strong></h3><p>If your existing CDS is still reliable, upgrading might buy you the time you need to strategize for a bigger leap later. But if it’s holding your lab back—think slow processing, limited features, or constant maintenance headaches—then maybe it’s time to consider a modern solution.</p><p>The future waits for no one, and neither should your lab. After all, the right CDS can be the difference between staying compliant or scrambling at the eleventh hour. So, ask yourself: <i>Is it time for a fresh start?</i></p><p>And remember, future-ready doesn’t just mean keeping up; it means setting the pace. For more information, take a look at our webinar on <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/webinar/4829"><strong>Migration and Update of the Chromatography Data System</strong></a></p><blockquote><p>Visit us on <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/72003132/admin/dashboard/">LinkedIn:</a> #Chromeleon #CDS #ChromatographyDataSystem</p></blockquote>

Are You Future Ready? Upgrading Your CDS vs. Swapping Vendors

News from LabRulezLCMS Library - Week 17, 2025

News from LabRulezLCMS Library - Week 19, 2025

<p><strong>Our Library never stops expanding. What are the most recent contributions to LabRulezGCMS Library in the week of 19th May 2025? Check out new documents from the field of the gas phase, especially GC and GC/MS techniques!</strong></p><blockquote><p><span style="font-size:20px;">👉 </span><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library"><span style="font-size:20px;"><strong>SEARCH THE LARGEST REPOSITORY OF DOCUMENTS ABOUT GCMS AND RELATED TECHNIQUES</strong></span></a></p></blockquote><blockquote><p><strong>👉 Need info about different analytical techniques?</strong> Peek into <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/library"><strong>LabRulezLCMS</strong></a> or <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library"><strong>LabRulezICPMS</strong></a> libraries.</p></blockquote><p>This week we bring you application notes by <strong>Agilent Technologies, Shimadzu, </strong>poster by<strong> MDCW </strong>and technical note by <strong>Thermo Fisher Scientific!</strong></p><h3><strong>1. Agilent Technologies: Py-GC/MS/MS Microplastic Analysis of Samples Containing Interfering Substances</strong></h3><ul><li>Application note</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/an_microplastic_analysis_pygcmsms_5994_7637en_agilent_1_6caa53726f.pdf"><strong>Full PDF for download</strong></a></li></ul><p>Microplastics, defined as plastic fragments with a particle size of 5 mm or less, originate from various products, such as cosmetics, clothing, food packaging, and plastic waste. Microplastics have been detected in water, soil, and air environments,5 as well as in food and within living organisms.7 Consequently, numerous analytical techniques are being developed to investigate the extent of microplastic contamination and its impacts.&nbsp;</p><p>Microplastics can be seen with the naked eye or a microscope when the particle size is large, but observation is difficult when the size is small, and quantitative analysis by type of plastic is difficult. Techniques using spectroscopic instruments, such as IR or Raman, or thermal analysis instruments such as Py-GC/MS or thermal extraction desorption (TED)-GC/MS have been widely used.1, 2, 3, 4 IR and Raman spectroscopy can be used to identify the type, shape, size, and count of microplastics on filters after sample preparation and filtration. These techniques rely on spectroscopic analysis of the microplastics retained on the filter. For Py-GC/MS or TED-GC/MS, the microplastics collected on the filter are thermally decomposed, and the resulting compounds are analyzed with GC/MS, allowing for the quantification of each type of microplastic8 (by weight). In particular, Py-GC/MS has recently been recognized as an ASTM International method11 and is widely applied as an analytical method for analyzing microplastics in drinking water.12 In the case of environmental samples or food samples with complex matrices, additional matrix effects can negatively impact analytical performance or result in thermal decomposition products that cannot be separated from microplastic thermal decomposition product peaks, causing interference and overlapping with target ions.6&nbsp;</p><p>In this application, we applied Py-GC/MS/MS (MRM mode) to microplastic analysis to determine whether accurate quantitative analysis of microplastics is possible even in samples containing complex matrices.</p><h5><strong>Instrument and analysis conditions&nbsp;</strong></h5><p>The instruments used were a Frontier Lab pyrolyzer (<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=42&amp;search=Py-3030D"><strong>Py-3030D</strong></a>) and an Agilent <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=10&amp;search=8890+GC"><strong>8890 GC</strong></a> coupled to a <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=10&amp;search=7000E+triple+quadrupole+gc%2Fms"><strong>7000E triple quadrupole GC/MS system</strong></a>. The temperature of the pyrolyzer was set to 600 °C, as shown in Table 1, and the components produced by thermal decomposition were passed through the GC inlet (320 °C, split 50:1), cryo-focused by liquid nitrogen applied to the front end of deactivated metal capillary column (UA-5, 30 m x 0.25 mm x 0.25 µm) in the Microjet Cryo Trap, separated by the GC oven temperature program after about 3 minutes, and transferred to the mass spectrometer. The analysis conditions are shown in Tables 1, 2, 3, and 4.</p><h4><strong>Results and discussion</strong></h4><h5><strong>Chromatogram</strong></h5><p>Chromatograms resulting from the analysis of the microplastics calibration standard (MPCS) that includes 11 types of microplastics are shown in Figure 1 for both Scan and MRM modes. The Scan mode total ion chromatogram (TIC) can be processed into extracted ion chromatograms (EIC) to confirm the target ion (m/z) for each indicator peak, as seen on the left side of Figure 1. The MRM TIC and EIC are shown on the right side of Figure 1. As can be seen, MRM mode can reduce matrix interference and enhance selectivity. Calibration curves can be created using either Scan or MRM mode using concentration of the MPCS.</p><h4><strong>Conclusion</strong></h4><p>We have established a quantitative analysis method using Py-GC/MS/MS (MRM mode) for complex matrix samples and trace levels of microplastics.&nbsp;</p><p>Under the established Py-GC/MS/MS (MRM mode) conditions, the linearity of the calibration curves generated for the 11 types of microplastics, ranging from several hundred ng to several µg, was excellent (R² &gt; 0.99). Compared to Scan (Target EIC) mode, noise is reduced by two to several times when analyzed in MRM mode, and accordingly, the S/N ratio is increased when analyzed in MRM mode, enabling the detection of microplastics with better selectivity. In addition, when there is matrix interference during sample analysis, more accurate quantitative results can be obtained by applying the MRM mode, and Py-GC/MS/MS (MRM mode) can be very useful for quantifying complex matrix samples and trace levels of microplastics.</p><h3><strong>2. MDCW: Analysis of (micro-)plastic-associated chemicals released into marine environments by comprehensive multidimensional gas chromatography-mass spectrometry</strong></h3><ul><li>Poster</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/MDC_2025_Poster_d31ebb1c76.pdf"><strong>Full PDF for download</strong></a></li></ul><p>Plastic materials contain many different chemicals, which include functional additives as well as trace levels of non-intentionally added substances. Plastic released into the environment acts as a vector for these chemicals, which may cause harm to exposed organisms. The complex mixture of chemical classes and concentrations within plastics is a challenge for analysis, which can be addressed through the use of multidimensional analytical approaches.&nbsp;</p><p>Here, the chemical composition of different polymer samples was analysed using comprehensive multidimensional gas chromatography coupled to time-of-flight mass spectrometry. Ultrasonication assisted extractions with solvent represents a ‘worse-case-scenario’ in relation to environmental leaching, and provides a starting point for non-target analysis of microplastic leaching in marine environments.</p><h4><strong>Results</strong></h4><p>All the virgin polymer samples released chemicals under organic extraction. As shown in Figure 1, the Hexane DCM:MeOH MeOH EtOAc number of compounds released by each polymer was influenced by the solvent used for the extraction. Additionally, the conventional polymers released a higher number of chemicals than the biopolymers, particularly LDPE and PP.&nbsp;</p><p>The high number of compounds released by LDPE and PP is due to the release of polymer-derived alkanes. The use of GC ×GC enabled separation and identification of other plastic-associated compounds from the alkane series (see respective chromatograms). In contrast, the other polymers released a range of compound classes. Some of the compounds identified in the extracts, for example phthalates, are detrimental to both human and environmental health.&nbsp;</p><h4><strong>Conclusion</strong></h4><p>Chemical extracts from several polymer samples demonstrated that virgin polymer samples contain chemicals which are not chemically bonded to the bulk polymer material – and therefore have potential to be released into the environment. Future leaching studies can be informed by the chemical identifications made, and increase the confidence that those compounds identified in leachates did originate from the respective polymer.</p><h3><strong>3. Shimadzu: Quantitative Analysis of Furan and Alkylfuran in Processed Food Using a Triple Quadrupole GC-MS System and an SPME Arrow</strong></h3><ul><li>Application note</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/an_01_00876_en_96a8b1c14c.pdf"><strong>Full PDF for download</strong></a></li></ul><p><strong>User Benefits:</strong></p><ul><li>Using an <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=1&amp;search=SPME+Arrow+"><strong>SPME Arrow </strong></a>allows for highly sensitive analysis of furan and alkylfuran in processed food.</li><li>The MRM mode enables highly reliable analysis even in complex matrices.</li><li>An <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=1&amp;search=AOC-6000+Plus+autosampler"><strong>AOC-6000 Plus autosampler</strong></a> helps increase productivity and repeatability through automated pretreatment.</li></ul><p>Furan and alkylfuran compounds are commonly found in many foods, including coffee. They are known as volatile organic compounds that contribute to aroma. However, recent studies in various countries have reported health concerns regarding these compounds and monitoring of furan and alkylfuran has been recommended in the EU1) .&nbsp;</p><p>These compounds are frequently measured using the HSGC/MS method, which is convenient and effective when present at relatively high concentrations. However, for samples containing low concentrations, pretreatment for concentration is necessary. This Application News article describes a method using an SPME Arrow and GC-MS/MS system that enables more consistent analysis even at trace concentrations in complex matrix samples.</p><h4><strong>Instrument Configuration and Analytical Conditions</strong></h4><p>The analysis was performed using an AOC-6000 Plus multifunctional autosampler and a <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=1&amp;search=GCMS-TQ8040+NX"><strong>GCMS-TQ8040 NX </strong></a>triple quadrupole gas chromatograph mass spectrometer system (Fig. 1). The AOC-6000 Plus is a multifunctional autosampler that can automatically switch between various sample injection methods, such as liquid injection, headspace injection, and solid-phase microextraction (SPME), depending on the sample and purpose (Fig. 2). In this analysis, an SPME Arrow, which offers improved durability compared to a traditional SPME fiber, was used forsample analysis. When using sampling methods involving concentration, such as the SPME method, matrix-derived impurities may also be concentrated, making it difficult to improve sensitivity due to interference from impurities. In this analysis, high sensitivity for analyzing furan in processed foods was achieved by using the SPME method in combination with the MRM mode of the triple quadrupole GC-MS system.</p><h4><strong>Comparison of SIM and MRM</strong></h4><p>To confirm the improvement in selectivity with MRM, analysis using the SIM mode was also conducted. Generally, the MRM mode of a triple quadrupole GC-MS system offers better selectivity compared to the SIM mode, leading to higher sensitivity and more consistent detection. Fig. 5 shows the SIM and MRM chromatograms of four components detected in baby food. While each component was detectable with both modes, the MRM mode provided higher selectivity, whereas the SIM mode was more susceptible to interference from impurities. Therefore, manual peak integration or changes to the quantitative ions may be required in the SIM mode depending on the sample.</p><h4><strong>Conclusion</strong></h4><p>Quantitative analysis of furan and alkylfuran in processed food was conducted using an SPME Arrow and a triple quadrupole GC-MS system. The AOC-6000 Plus multifunctional autosampler allows for highly sensitive and reproducible quantification of furan compounds using the SPME Arrow method. Additionally, by enhancing selectivity with the MRM mode of the triple quadrupole GC-MS system, more reliable analytical results were obtained.</p><h3><strong>4. Thermo Fisher Scientific: Data-driven GC and GC-MS instrument monitoring with SmartStatus intelligent software&nbsp;</strong></h3><ul><li>Technical note</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/tn_001883_gc_ms_gc_ms_ms_smartstatus_tn001883_na_en_99ce72eef2/tn-001883-gc-ms-gc-ms-ms-smartstatus-tn001883-na-en.pdf"><strong>Full PDF for download</strong></a></li></ul><p>Rising costs can significantly impact an analytical laboratory’s profit margin, and it is crucial to maintain productivity and ensure maximum asset utilization to stay competitive. To balance increased overhead costs, including analytical gases and staff pay, laboratories must ensure that analytical instrumentation consistently produces results, without interruption. Re-analyzing entire runs due to drops in sensitivity, unnecessary downtime, and underutilization of consumables is expensive and time consuming.&nbsp;</p><p>Thermo Scientific™ <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=3&amp;search=SmartStatus"><strong>SmartStatus</strong></a>™ instrument tracking can help laboratories realize additional cost savings. This is done by using data-driven insights to accurately determine when to perform maintenance and replace consumables and parts, so that the system consistently runs smoothly for all samples and meets specifications in the initial analysis. This ensures that consumables and parts are replaced on the correct schedule and avoids excess instrument downtime.&nbsp;</p><p>SmartStatus instrument tracking is an intelligent instrument health software that allows users to track key aspects of their GC-MS system. It is available as standard on the Thermo Scientific™ <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/products/483"><strong>TRACE™ 1600 GC series</strong></a>, Thermo Scientific™ <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=3&amp;search=AI%2FAS+1610+liquid+autosampler"><strong>AI/AS 1610 liquid autosampler</strong></a>, Thermo Scientific™ <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/products/484"><strong>ISQ™ 7610 GC-MS series</strong></a>, and the Thermo Scientific™ <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/products/485"><strong>TSQ™ 9610 GC-MS/MS series</strong></a>. In this technical note, the new SmartStatus instrument tracking capabilities are highlighted with examples of how it can enable analytical laboratories to keep instruments producing consistent results.</p><h4><strong>SmartStatus software overview&nbsp;</strong></h4><p>SmartStatus intelligent software, available within Thermo Scientific™ <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/products/76"><strong>Chromeleon™ Chromatography Data System (CDS)</strong></a>, allows monitoring of the entire analytical system including Thermo Scientific™ autosamplers, GC, GC detectors (FID and TCD), and mass spectrometers (MS). Hundreds of key instrument parameters are monitored by SmartStatus software, which provides real-time data and insights informing the user to potential problems before they arise to ensure maximum instrument uptime. This allows users to make informed decisions on which parts of the analytical system require attention and when. By performing preventative maintenance using data-driven guidance, optimal instrument performance is sustained day in and day out. Figure 1 shows the SmartStatus software overview page for a TSQ 9610 triple quadrupole MS coupled to a TRACE 1610 GC and AI/AS 1610 liquid autosampler. This overview page allows a user to quickly determine if the system is ready to run or requires attention.&nbsp;</p><p>For more information on instrument status, there is a detailed view for each part of the system. This next level view shows how many injections have been performed for the various GC consumables, the lifetime of the MS detector and filament, and when the last tune was performed. Figure 2 shows an example of the GC and MS parameters and how they are monitored. Each parameter is represented as a counter gauge. As the usage increases, the gauge changes color to quickly notify the user of any maintenance that is required or will be needed soon. This allows users to plan maintenance in advance to fit it around their schedule and workload. SmartStatus instrument tracking can be monitored directly in Chromeleon CDS, and consumables usage can also be monitored directly on the TRACE 1610 GC touch screen through the dedicated instrument health icon, as shown in Figure 3.</p><h4><strong>Conclusion&nbsp;</strong></h4><p>SmartStatus software is intelligent and data-driven, allowing users to make informed decisions on when to perform maintenance on their GC and GC-MS systems. Its features and advantages include:</p><ul><li>At-a-glance system ready status allowing the analyst to act only when needed, removing wastes&nbsp;</li><li>User customizability of monitored parameters, threshold, and time units, which gives users control to monitor the system in a way that fits their needs&nbsp;</li><li>Intelligent preventative maintenance alerts ensuring maintenance to be performed before issues arise, keeping the instrument up and running longer</li><li>Consumable tracking that enables sustainable operation and maximization of the use of each consumable&nbsp;</li><li>Smart Support for rapid remote diagnosis to ensure any instrument issues can be resolved without delay&nbsp;</li></ul><p>Utilizing SmartStatus software on the TRACE 1600 series GC, TSQ 9610 GC-MS/MS, and ISQ 7610 GC-MS gives the analyst data-driven insights to make informed decisions that allow laboratories to operate more sustainably by maintain productivity, maximizing consumable usage, and reducing laboratory costs.</p>

News from LabRulezGCMS Library - Week 21, 2025

News from LabRulezLCMS Library - Week 22, 2025

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